The Nigerian Institution of Building (NIOB) has warned that quacks pose a serious threat to building safety in Nigeria.

The NIOB President, Mr Daniel Kolade, spoke on Saturday at the closing ceremony of the institution’s 56th annual conference in Abuja.

The conference focused on “Repositioning the Building Profession, Advocacy and Policy Influence in Housing Delivery for a Sustainable Built Environment.”

NIOB Calls for Action Against Quacks

Kolade said the conference gave builders from across Nigeria a chance to discuss key challenges in the building sector.

He said the discussions also examined ways to improve housing delivery through better policies and stronger professional practice.

According to Kolade, government, professionals and the public must work together to tackle quackery in the construction industry.

He called on the Federal Government to give full legal backing to the National Building Code.

Some states have already adopted the code. However, Kolade said stronger federal action remains necessary.

He said better enforcement would help improve compliance with building standards and reduce the risk of building collapse.

NIOB Wants Prevention of Building Collapse

Kolade also raised concerns about the repeated cases of building collapse across Nigeria.

He questioned whether government action after a building collapse has stopped the problem from happening again.

The NIOB president said authorities should focus more on preventing building failures.

He also called for stricter enforcement of approved construction standards.

Building collapse remains a major concern for Nigeria’s housing sector. Such incidents can lead to deaths, property losses and higher costs for affected families and investors.

Public Urged to Hire Qualified Professionals

Kolade urged professionals in the built environment to perform their duties with care.

He also warned Nigerians against giving professional construction work to unqualified people.

He described a quack as a person who claims to handle almost every part of a building project without the required training or certification.

Such work may include preparing building designs, construction and maintenance.

Kolade advised property owners to check the qualifications of people they hire for building projects.

He said Nigerians should not sacrifice safety in an attempt to reduce construction costs.

The NIOB president encouraged property owners to engage qualified builders, architects, engineers and other relevant professionals.

Professional Standards Key to Safer Housing

Kolade said professional involvement at every stage of construction can help reduce construction risks.

Qualified professionals can help identify poor workmanship, design problems and failures to meet building regulations.

This issue is important as Nigeria works to increase housing supply.

The country needs more homes, but new housing must also meet safety and quality standards.

Poor construction practices can increase risks for homeowners, tenants, developers and investors.

NIOB Supports Renewed Hope Housing

Kolade said the NIOB remains ready to support the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Initiative.

He specifically mentioned the Renewed Hope Housing projects across the country.

However, he called for policies that would increase the role of qualified professionals in government housing programmes.

He said professional input would help ensure that housing projects meet required standards.

Kolade also welcomed the position presented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume.

Akume chaired the opening ceremony of the NIOB conference.

Kolade said the NIOB would continue to work with the government and other stakeholders to improve the building industry.

He also said the institution would support efforts to promote sustainable housing delivery.

NIOB Says Quacks Have No Hiding Place

Kolade said the NIOB would intensify efforts to identify unqualified practitioners in the industry.

He urged professionals to challenge practices that put building safety at risk.

“My message for them is that they should just know that their time is over. There is no more hiding place for those quacks within the industry,” he said.

The statement reflects the institution’s growing focus on professional standards and accountability within the building sector.

Jos North Chairman Calls for Compliance

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of Jos North Local Government, Plateau, Mr John Christopher, called for strict compliance with approved building standards.

Christopher said quality housing remains important to human life.

He urged young professionals to embrace new ideas while keeping safety and quality at the centre of their work.

He also called for stronger compliance with approved building designs and specifications.

According to him, the rising cases of building collapse make such action necessary.

Christopher further urged the Federal Government to give greater attention to housing development and affordable shelter.

Housing remains one of the basic needs of Nigerians.

The NIOB’s warning highlights a major challenge for Nigeria’s housing and construction sectors. Increasing the supply of homes must go hand in hand with strong regulation and professional practice.

Better enforcement of building standards can help protect lives, property and investment while supporting safer housing delivery across the country.

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Several people, including women and children, are feared dead after an attack on Aper Village in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Local sources said the attackers struck the community in the early hours of Tuesday. Several other residents are also reportedly missing.

The incident marks the third attack recorded in Mangu within the past week. The latest violence has renewed concerns about the safety of residents in the area.

Police Yet to Confirm Casualties

The Plateau State Police Command said it had not received full details of the incident.

The command’s Public Relations Officer, Alfred Alabo, said he did not have information on the latest attack. He, however, promised to provide updates when the command receives more details.

The number of people killed or missing remains unclear. Authorities have also not confirmed who carried out the attack.

The latest incident follows another attack in the area. Local sources said one person was shot during the previous incident.

Security Concerns Grow in Mangu

The repeated attacks have increased concerns among residents and community leaders. They also raise questions about the safety of homes, businesses and public facilities in affected communities.

Insecurity can disrupt normal life in several ways. Families may leave their homes for safer locations. Businesses may also struggle to operate when residents fear further attacks.

Schools, health centres, roads and other public facilities can also face disruption when violence affects a community.

Impact on Housing and Infrastructure

The security situation also has implications for housing and property development.

Developers need a stable environment to build and manage housing projects. Contractors also need safe access to construction sites and materials.

Repeated violence can make some areas less attractive to property investors. It can also affect demand for homes and commercial properties when residents move to safer communities.

Displacement creates another challenge. Families who leave affected areas may need temporary or permanent accommodation elsewhere. This can put additional pressure on housing and basic infrastructure in receiving communities.

Urban planners and government agencies may also face challenges when population movements happen suddenly. Roads, water supply, sanitation and other services may come under pressure when communities receive displaced residents.

Need for Verified Information

The full circumstances surrounding the Aper Village attack remain unclear.

The Plateau Police Command is expected to provide more information as it receives reports from the area. Such updates will help establish the number of casualties, the number of missing persons and other details of the incident.

For residents of Mangu, the immediate concern remains safety and the protection of lives and property.

The latest attack also highlights how insecurity can affect more than personal safety. Repeated violence can disrupt homes, livelihoods, construction activity and infrastructure development. Maintaining security therefore remains important to the stability and development of affected communities in Plateau State.

The post Several Feared Killed in Plateau Attack as Mangu Faces Fresh Violence appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has rejected the Federal Government’s renewed cattle ranching policy. The group says the plan could create fresh disputes over land in the Middle Belt.

The forum raised concerns about proposed ranching sites in Adamawa, Plateau, Southern Kaduna, Benue, Taraba and the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement signed by its National Spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF said the government should not allocate community land without the consent of the people who own or occupy it.

MBF raises land ownership concerns

The forum said many communities in the Middle Belt have faced years of attacks, killings and displacement.

It argued that the government should first help displaced residents return to their ancestral homes. It also called for better security in affected communities.

The MBF questioned the decision to set aside more land for cattle settlements while some communities remain displaced.

The group said large areas of Middle Belt land have already been abandoned or occupied because of insecurity. It warned that another round of land allocation could increase tensions.

The forum also criticised the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, over the proposed ranching programme.

Group questions choice of states

The MBF said the government should consider other parts of northern Nigeria for the programme.

It pointed to Jigawa, Kano, Sokoto, Bauchi, Zamfara and Northern Kebbi. According to the group, these areas have large areas of unused land.

The forum also questioned a change in the states selected for the proposed pilot programme.

It said Kano State appeared on the list announced by the minister in January 2026. The government later replaced Kano with Nasarawa State.

The MBF said the change raised concerns about the purpose and direction of the programme.

It also opposed the Wase ranching model in Plateau State. The minister has presented the model as an example of the ranching approach.

The forum claimed that some farmers and Plateau indigenes oppose the model. It also alleged that some political and traditional figures support it because they could benefit from land allocations.

Ranching policy and community consent

The MBF said the government must consult communities before using their land for ranching.

It called for clear security measures and proper discussions with landowners. The group warned that imposing a ranching programme could worsen existing tensions.

The issue also raises wider questions about land management in Nigeria.

Ranching requires land, roads, water supply, veterinary services and other infrastructure. Government agencies must therefore consider how such projects will affect existing communities and land users.

Clear land ownership records can also help reduce disputes. Proper planning can protect property rights while allowing new infrastructure and agricultural projects to grow.

Impact on housing and real estate

The dispute has implications beyond livestock development.

Land remains central to housing, real estate and infrastructure projects. Changes in land use can affect property owners, developers, investors and communities.

Unclear ownership can also discourage investment. It can delay housing projects and create disputes over development rights.

For this reason, land acquisition should follow clear legal procedures. Governments also need to engage affected communities before major land-use decisions.

MBF calls for policy suspension

The Middle Belt Forum called on President Bola Tinubu to suspend the proposed ranching policy in the region.

It also urged communities to use lawful and constitutional means to challenge any alleged unlawful acquisition of their land.

The group asked National Assembly members from affected states to question the Minister of Livestock Development. It said lawmakers should protect the interests of their constituents.

The MBF also warned state governors against allocating community land without the consent of local residents.

The forum said such decisions could have political consequences ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The dispute shows the challenge of balancing livestock development with land rights and community interests. For Nigeria’s housing and real estate sectors, the issue also highlights the need for clear land records, proper planning and transparent land acquisition processes.

Any ranching programme that moves forward will need to address land ownership, community consent, security and infrastructure. These factors will be important to reducing conflict and supporting sustainable development.

The post MBF Rejects Middle Belt Ranching Plan, Warns Over Land Allocation appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Several residents have reportedly been killed after suspected militia members attacked communities in Jwak Maitumbi, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The attack took place in the early hours of Sunday and caused extensive damage to homes and farmland. About 45 residential buildings were reportedly destroyed, while attackers also looted valuables and damaged crops.

The incident was reported at about 7:45am, according to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama. Security personnel were later deployed to the affected community.

Residents flee after attack

A military security source told the publication that troops found about 45 houses destroyed when they arrived at the scene.

The attackers reportedly took valuables from residents before leaving the area. Several people were also said to have suffered gunshot wounds, while some victims were reportedly killed during the assault.

The violence forced many residents to leave their homes. Women, children and elderly people reportedly fled the community as they searched for safer locations.

The attack also affected agricultural activities in the area. According to reports, the assailants entered farms belonging to Fulani residents and allegedly destroyed large quantities of crops with cutlasses.

The destruction of homes and farmland has added to concerns about the wider impact of insecurity on rural communities. Beyond the immediate loss of lives, attacks of this nature can leave displaced families without shelter, food supplies or access to their sources of income.

Military moves to prevent reprisal

Following the attack, troops reportedly summoned the Galadima and youth leader of Jwak Maitumbi.

The community leaders were asked to cooperate with security agencies and assist efforts to identify those responsible for the violence.

The military’s engagement is aimed at preventing the situation from developing into further conflict. Security concerns remain high because attacks on homes and farms can increase tensions between neighbouring communities.

Plateau State has experienced repeated episodes of communal violence. Previous incidents have sometimes led to retaliatory attacks, resulting in further deaths, destruction of property and displacement.

Zagazola Makama warned that the latest incident could create conditions for revenge attacks if those responsible are not identified and held accountable.

The publication said a failure to establish responsibility could also increase feelings of injustice and encourage affected communities to seek their own form of retaliation.

Security presence increased

Troops have reportedly maintained a presence around the affected area while working with community and traditional leaders.

The engagement is intended to reduce tensions, support the restoration of calm and prevent further violence.

For residents who have been displaced, however, the destruction of homes and farmland creates an immediate humanitarian challenge. Families who lost their houses may require temporary shelter, while farmers whose crops were destroyed could face difficulties restoring their livelihoods.

The latest incident has renewed concerns about security in parts of Mangu Local Government Area and the ability of vulnerable communities to protect their homes, farms and livelihoods.

Beyond the security response, the destruction highlights the close link between conflict, housing and community stability. When violence forces families from their homes and destroys productive farmland, recovery can become much harder and displacement can persist long after the immediate attack ends.

The post Plateau Attack Leaves Residents Dead, 45 Homes Destroyed appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Gunmen on Monday night attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in Plateau State, killing two soldiers and a police officer deployed to protect the institution’s staff quarters.

The victims were reportedly on duty when the attackers struck the residential area of the institute.

Confirming the incident in a statement on Tuesday, the Head of Public Affairs of NIPSS, Dr. Osime Samuel, said a security breach occurred in the vicinity of the institute but assured that the situation had been brought under control.

“The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, wishes to inform the public that a security incident occurred in the vicinity of the Institute in the early hours of today,” he said.

According to Samuel, the swift intervention of security personnel prevented further escalation, adding that there was no immediate threat to participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the institute.

“There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute. Normal activities are continuing as scheduled,” he stated.

Sources, however, disclosed that the attackers allegedly targeted the residences of the Acting Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman-Mann, and a Directing Staff member, Professor Haruna Dabin.

The sources revealed that both officials had reportedly received handwritten threat notes pasted on their doors on Saturday, demanding payments of $100,000 and N15 million respectively. The matter was said to have been reported to the institute’s management.

A source familiar with the incident said the soldiers and police officer lost their lives during an exchange of gunfire with the attackers.

“During the day, local security personnel monitor the staff quarters, while soldiers and police officers provide security at night. It is believed the attackers came for the officials they had earlier threatened,” the source said.

NIPSS management said security agencies have commenced investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and identify those responsible.

The institute urged members of the public and the media to rely on official communications while investigations continue.

“NIPSS is working closely with the appropriate authorities and will provide verified information as soon as it becomes available. We urge members of the public and the media to rely on official communications from the Institute and relevant security agencies,” Samuel added.

The management reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and security of staff, participants, and residents, while commending the professionalism of security personnel involved in responding to the incident.

The bodies of the slain security operatives have reportedly been deposited in a mortuary as investigations continue.

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The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit, with assurances that the pricing of government-owned housing projects will be reviewed to ensure affordability for average Nigerians.

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, gave the assurance during an official assessment visit to the National Housing Project (NHP) Estate in Laminga, Jos East Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Ata said affordable housing remains a core priority under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, stressing that the administration is focused on expanding housing supply while preventing cost barriers that could exclude intended beneficiaries.

According to the minister, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is intensifying efforts to increase the volume of available housing units nationwide, while ensuring that pricing structures reflect economic realities and promote inclusivity.

Price Review for Dilapidated Units

During the visit, officials of the Jos East Local Government Area expressed interest in acquiring housing units within the Laminga estate through a bulk purchase arrangement. However, the local authorities requested a downward review of the initial prices, citing visible dilapidation in some buildings and the anticipated cost of maintenance and repairs.

Responding to the request, Ata assured that the ministry would reassess the estate’s valuation to reflect its current condition.

“The ministry will offer the houses to the local government based on current face value, taking into consideration some observed dilapidation,” the minister said. “We will review the initial pricing and address it accordingly to ensure these units are put to use for the benefit of the people.”

Boosting Local Economic Activity

The NHP Estate in Laminga is expected to play a significant role in stimulating socio-economic growth in Jos East and surrounding communities. Beyond providing shelter, the occupation of the estate is projected to create economic opportunities, improve living standards, and reduce infrastructure decay caused by prolonged vacancy.

The Federal Controller of Housing in Plateau State, Bldr. Emmanuel Attah, who accompanied the minister on the inspection, confirmed that the local government was eager to take over the housing units. He noted that doing so would help reduce maintenance costs and prevent further deterioration of the buildings.

Renewed Hope Housing Agenda

The assessment visit highlights the Federal Government’s proactive approach to managing the National Housing Programme and ensuring that completed projects are not left idle.

By addressing pricing concerns and encouraging bulk acquisition by local governments, the ministry aims to accelerate the deployment of affordable housing units across the country while strengthening collaboration between federal and local authorities.

The minister concluded the visit by reaffirming the administration’s resolve to deliver sustainable housing solutions that support social stability, economic development, and improved quality of life for Nigerians.

The post FG to Review Housing Prices as Minister Reaffirms Commitment to Affordable Homes appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other federal agencies have revealed that there is no clear evidence that local government allocations from the Federation Account get to the councils directly.

The agencies made this known during a workshop on the Local Government Accountability Framework (LGAF) held in Jos, Plateau State, for local government chairmen.

The event was organised by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).

The ICPC Executive Secretary, Clifford Oparaodu, said that despite the Supreme Court ruling granting full autonomy to local governments, there is still no system to verify what each council receives.

He noted that most allocations are channelled through state joint accounts, making it difficult for councils to know or plan with their actual funds.

He added that this lack of transparency undermines development and accountability at the grassroots level.

Other speakers, including the RoLAC Programme Manager, Emmanuel Uche, and LGAF Coordinator, Umar Yakubu, also said that democracy cannot grow without openness and accountability in the use of public funds.

They called on citizens to demand transparency and for local governments to be given full control of their allocations to improve schools, healthcare, and infrastructure in rural communities.

The post ICPC, Others Uncover Lack of Transparency in Local Government Allocations appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The attack, which took place around 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, forced residents to flee en masse to nearby communities, including Bashar, as fear and uncertainty spread across the area.

According to the community’s traditional ruler, Abdulbari’u Muhammad, the attackers stormed the village on motorcycles, looting food items, clothing, and motorcycles before setting homes on fire. Among those abducted were two of his palace aides, Waziri and Wakili, the latter being his younger brother.

“We are completely confused and don’t know what to do, which is why we fled to Bashar,” the traditional ruler lamented. “Everybody has left because people are afraid to remain in the area.”

Residents say the violence may be connected to a recent clash between local vigilantes and suspected bandits, which left several vigilantes dead and multiple houses destroyed.

One of the displaced residents, Abubakar Zubairu, said the entire community was deserted by Thursday morning in the aftermath of the assault. “Everyone is leaving. There’s no one left in the village right now,” he said.

Muhammad appealed to the government for immediate deployment of security forces to the area to allow displaced residents to return and tend to their farmlands. “Our crops have been planted, and we are deeply worried. We need security so we can go back to our farms and secure our livelihoods,” he pleaded.

As of press time, security agencies including Operation Safe Haven and the Plateau State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

The latest attack underscores the growing insecurity in parts of Plateau State and raises fresh concerns over the safety of rural communities amid ongoing efforts to restore peace.

The post Gunmen Abduct Palace Officials, Torch Homes in Fresh Plateau Attack appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The incident, which marks a tragic escalation of a conflict said to have lingered for over five years, has sparked concerns among local authorities and residents alike.

Chairman of Mikang Local Government Council, Dr. Benard Soepding Alkali, who visited the community to assess the damage, condemned the violence as “unnecessary and unacceptable,” describing it as a setback to ongoing peacebuilding efforts in the area.

“It is unfortunate that while the government is working tirelessly to protect our lands from external threats and encroachment, we are fighting and killing each other over the same land,” Alkali said. “When brothers fight over inheritance, it creates an opening for strangers to take over. This must stop.”

He further disclosed that Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang had been briefed on the matter and had mandated immediate intervention to prevent further hostilities. Alkali also pledged to engage the disputing families in peace talks, while working towards a long-term resolution.

The son of the deceased, Mr. Felix Bagen, gave a moving account of the attack, stating that his father was killed despite a pending court case over the land in question. He appealed to the government to take temporary possession of the land until the legal dispute is resolved.

“We’ve lived in fear for years over this land. Now my father is dead. I beg the authorities to step in and bring justice,” Bagen said.

Community leader Mr. Saty Woldut thanked the chairman for his swift response and assured him of the community’s commitment to peace. Similarly, Long Lalin, the Leader of the Mikang Legislative Council and councillor representing Luham Ward, urged local leaders to sensitize youths and discourage any form of reprisal or violence.

The Plateau State Government has yet to issue a formal statement, but local authorities have confirmed that security measures are being reinforced in the area to forestall further violence.

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Chaos unfolded in Gyenbwas, a village in Langai district of Mangu Local Government Area, Plateau State, where 96 houses were set ablaze in a violent overnight attack that left three people dead and scores displaced.

According to residents, the assailants looted food items, livestock, mattresses, and valuables before setting homes and properties on fire.

Traditional ruler Alhaji Yakubu Umar confirmed the destruction, stating that one more body was discovered on Tuesday following the deaths of two people the previous day.

The village, once known for its peaceful nature, now lies in ruins, with families left homeless and traumatized. Umar expressed deep shock, noting that the attackers also destroyed farming tools, clothing, and food supplies worth millions of naira.

Locals have accused members of the Berom ethnic group of masterminding the attack, but the Berom Youth Moulders Association has denied any involvement. Dalyop Solomon, president of the group, claimed that three Berom farmers were attacked in the area and are currently receiving medical attention. He maintained that his people were acting in self-defense and dismissed the accusations as a cover-up by Fulani groups trying to justify violence.

As accusations and counter-claims fuel further division, the community has appealed to both the Plateau State government and Mangu LGA for a thorough investigation and immediate support for those who lost everything. For the residents of Gyenbwas, the smoke has cleared—but the wounds remain open.

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